Weight loss with Mycobacterium vaccae. Credit: Science Direct
Researchers suggest that exposure to beneficial gut bacteria may prevent weight gain in mice, potentially paving the way for a future “vaccination.”
At the start of each year, many people embark on diets or exercise programs to lose weight. However, a recent study from the University of Colorado Boulder offers a novel approach that might one day make this goal easier: exposure to beneficial bacteria.
Published in the journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, this research found that weekly injections of a bacterium found in cow’s milk and soil protected mice from weight gain caused by a diet high in fat and sugar. “What’s striking is that we observed a complete prevention of weight gain associated with the diet,” the researchers stated in a press release.
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How Gut Microbiome Impact Health
This discovery adds to a growing body of research on the benefits of gut bacteria referred to as “old friends,” which have co-evolved with humans. Over time, urban and sanitized lifestyles have reduced our exposure to these essential microorganisms, increasing vulnerability to inflammatory diseases, according to the researchers.
In a previous study, the bacterium Mycobacterium vaccae—the source of this protection—was shown to reduce stress-induced inflammation in mice. This time, the scientists examined its effects on brain inflammation and diet-related anxiety.
For 10 weeks, mice were fed either a healthy diet or a diet high in fat and sugar. Half of the animals in each group received weekly injections of M. vaccae. As expected, mice on the “junk food” diet without the bacteria gained 16% more weight than the others. Remarkably, the mice on the high-fat diet that received the bacteria had weights similar to those on the healthy diet and accumulated less visceral fat, which is known to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Could a Gut Bacteria ‘Vaccine’ Prevent Obesity?
While these findings are limited to animals, researchers plan to explore whether M. vaccae could be administered orally or assist with weight loss in humans. In the meantime, they recommend increasing exposure to these “friendly” bacteria by spending time in nature, gardening, or consuming fresh vegetables.
“Avoiding junk food is challenging because it’s everywhere. But if we could restore our exposure to these bacteria, it might help counteract the harmful effects of our Western diet,” they concluded.
Read Also: High-Fat Diets Reshape Gut Bacteria and Raise Colorectal Cancer Risk, Study Shows
FAQ: Microbiome and Weight Gain Prevention
What is Mycobacterium vaccae?
Mycobacterium vaccae is a bacterium found in cow’s milk and soil, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
How does M. vaccae prevent weight gain?
In mice, it reduces inflammation and helps counteract the harmful effects of a high-fat, high-sugar diet.
Does this mean there will be a vaccine for weight gain?
Not yet. The research is in its early stages, and the findings are limited to mice.
Can humans take M. vaccae to lose weight?
It’s unclear. Further studies are needed to determine its safety and effectiveness in humans.
How can I increase exposure to beneficial bacteria?
Spend time in nature, garden, or consume fresh, unprocessed vegetables.
Why are these bacteria called “old friends”?
They are microorganisms that co-evolved with humans, helping maintain health, but modern lifestyles have reduced our exposure to them.
Can M. vaccae be taken orally?
Researchers are exploring this possibility for future applications.
Does this replace the need for diet and exercise?
No. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise is still crucial for overall health.
Is this study relevant to gut health?
Yes, it highlights the potential role of gut bacteria in weight management and overall well-being.
Are there risks to trying to increase beneficial bacteria exposure?
No major risks if done naturally, such as spending time outdoors or eating fresh produce. Avoid taking unverified supplements.
When might this research lead to human treatments?
It’s difficult to say. Further animal and human trials are necessary, which may take years.
Could this help with other health conditions?
Potentially. M. vaccae has shown benefits for reducing stress-induced inflammation and anxiety in previous studies.
References
Desmond, L. W., Dawud, L. M., Kessler, L. R., Akonom, T., Hunter, E. A. H., Holbrook, E. M., Andersen, N. D., Sterrett, J. D., Boateng, D. A., Stuart, B. J., Guerrero, L., Gebert, M. J., Tsai, P. S., Langgartner, D., Reber, S. O., Frank, M. G., & Lowry, C. A. (2024). Protective effects of Mycobacterium vaccae ATCC 15483 against “Western”-style diet-induced weight gain and visceral adiposity in adolescent male mice. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbi.2024.12.029
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